Are Blind Boxes Worth It? The Pros and Cons of Collecting Mystery Toys

Quick Answer

Blind boxes can be worth it if you enjoy the surprise and are prepared for duplicates, but they may not suit collectors who want specific designs. Weigh the pros and cons before you buy.

Blind boxes have taken the collectible world by storm, offering a mix of excitement and uncertainty. But are they truly worth your money? The answer depends on what you value most: the thrill of the reveal or the certainty of getting exactly what you want.

In this guide, we'll break down the pros and cons of collecting mystery toys, using real product examples to illustrate the tradeoffs. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, this will help you decide if blind boxes deserve a spot on your shelf.

The Surprise Factor: Why Blind Boxes Are Fun

One of the biggest draws of blind boxes is the element of surprise. Each box is a mystery, and the anticipation of opening it can be a delightful experience. For many collectors, the joy isn't just in the final product but in the process of discovery.

Take the Jotoys Q KID Emotional Monsters Series Earphone bag Blind Box, for example. With 6 regular styles and 1 chaser, each box offers a chance to get something rare. The possibility of pulling a chaser adds an extra layer of excitement that pre-selected items can't match.

• Surprise unboxing experience
• Potential to get rare or chaser items

The Value Question: Are Blind Boxes a Good Deal?

Blind boxes often have a lower price point than buying a specific figure outright, making them an affordable way to start a collection. For instance, the TNTSPACE Boy Rayan Youth Days Series 2 Blind Box is priced at $9.50, which is half its comparison price of $19.00. This kind of discount can make blind boxes seem like a bargain.

However, the value depends on what you get. If you receive a design you love, the deal feels great. If you get a duplicate or a style you don't care for, the value drops. The key is to consider whether the price is worth the risk of not getting your preferred design.

The Risk of Duplicates and Missing Pieces

One of the most common downsides of blind boxes is the chance of getting duplicates. Since you don't know what's inside, you might end up with multiple versions of the same style. This can be frustrating, especially if you're trying to complete a set.

For example, the Nommi Fantasy World Series Plush Blind Box includes 6 regular styles plus a secret, but there's no guarantee you'll get the one you want. The One Piece - Egghead 6 Blind Box has 5 designs, and buying a box of 12 increases your odds but doesn't eliminate the risk of repeats.

Collectibility and Resale Value

Some blind boxes hold their value or even appreciate over time, especially if they contain rare or exclusive designs. This makes them appealing to collectors who view them as investments. However, not all blind boxes are created equal; some may not resell for more than the original price.

The Butter Bear Vintage Style Dress-Up Blind Box, for instance, features a plush doll with retro outfits and includes a secret design. If the secret is highly sought after, its value could increase. But for common designs, the resale market may be less lucrative.

The Community and Social Aspect

Blind boxes also have a strong social component. Trading duplicates with friends or fellow collectors is a common practice, and online communities often share unboxing videos and trade posts. This can enhance the overall experience and make the hobby more enjoyable.

For example, the San-X Sumikkogurashi Original Halloween Keychain Plush Blind Box has 4 regular styles, making it easy to trade with others who might have extras. The sense of community can offset some of the downsides of collecting blind boxes.

Verdicts on Common Blind Box Claims

• Claim: Blind boxes are always a good deal.: False. While some boxes are priced below comparison, the value depends on the outcome. You might get a design you don't like, reducing the perceived value. Check the series lineup and decide if the price justifies the risk.
• Claim: You'll eventually get the one you want if you buy enough.: Partly true. Buying a full box (like the One Piece box of 12) improves your odds, but it's not a guarantee. There's always a chance of duplicates. Consider buying a full box if you want to complete a set, but be prepared for extras.
• Claim: Blind boxes are a good investment.: Not always. Some rare designs may increase in value, but many do not. The resale market is unpredictable. Collect for enjoyment first; treat potential value as a bonus, not a guarantee.

Product Facts at a Glance

• Jotoys Q KID Emotional Monsters Series Earphone bag Blind Box: Series includes 6 regular styles and 1 chaser (Courage). The chaser adds a rare element, increasing the excitement and potential value if you pull it.
• TNTSPACE Boy Rayan Youth Days Series 2 Blind Box: Priced at $9.50 (comparison price $19.00), with 9 regular styles and 1 secret. The lower price point makes it an affordable entry into blind box collecting, but the odds of getting a specific style are 1 in 10.
• Nommi Fantasy World Series Plush Blind Box: Includes 6 regular styles plus a secret, and is limited to 1 whole set per person. The limit on whole sets means you can't easily buy a full case, so duplicates are possible if you buy multiple boxes.
• One Piece - Egghead 6 "One Piece" (Box/ 12) Blind Box: Total of 5 designs, with a box containing 12 boxes. Buying a full box increases your chances of getting all designs, but duplicates are still possible, making it a safer but more expensive option.

Blind boxes are worth it if you enjoy the thrill of the unknown and can handle the risk of duplicates. They offer affordable entry points and the chance to find rare pieces, but they're not for everyone. Weigh the pros and cons, and decide based on your collecting style.